What makes The Wicker Man by Iron Maiden notable?

The Wicker Man debuted at number 10 on the UK Singles Chart, showcasing Iron Maiden's enduring popularity. It was notably recognized for its thematic ties to folk horror and has been credited with influencing a resurgence of interest in heavy metal music at the turn of the millennium. Critics praised its lyrical content and energetic composition, marking it as a significant moment in the band's legacy. Released on May 8, 2000, The Wicker Man marked Iron Maiden's return after a hiatus following the mixed reception of their previous album, Virtual XI. This single served as the lead for their comeback album, Brave New World, which revitalized the band's classic sound while introducing new elements. The release indicated a new phase in their career, re-establishing their presence in the heavy metal scene.

How many songs are on The Wicker Man?

The Wicker Man has 3 tracks, running approximately 12 minutes.

The Wicker Man

Iron Maiden · 2000

12 min · 3 tracks · heavy metal

A powerful blend of traditional heavy metal and modern energy, charged with a sense of urgency and narrative depth.

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Top tracks — play these first

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The Wicker Man — The title track encapsulates the album's themes of sacrifice and rebirth, featuring driving riffs and anthemic choruses that exemplify Iron Maiden's signature style.
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Futureal (live) — This live rendition highlights the band's dynamic stage presence and serves as a reminder of their earlier sound while connecting past and present.
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Man on the Edge (live) — Another live track that showcases the band's ability to engage audiences; its themes resonate with personal struggle and resilience, making it a fan favorite.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

57 /100

Foothills

Higher than 48% of albums we've rated

The Wicker Man combines strong composition with energetic craft, though the inclusion of live tracks affects its overall cohesion.

What we noticed

The title track features a driving tempo with galloping rhythms and layered guitar harmonies that create a sense of urgency.
The song's structure includes multiple sections, alternating between verses and choruses, with a bridge that builds tension before the final chorus.
The live tracks included showcase the band's performance energy but do not contribute to the cohesion of the single.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 4/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — Marked Iron Maiden's return and showcased their enduring popularity after a hiatus.
Themes: pagan rituals· industrial landscapes· mythical rebirth
Career context: Released on May 8, 2000, The Wicker Man marked Iron Maiden's return after a hiatus following the mixed reception of their previous album, Virtual XI. This single served as the lead for their comeback album, Brave New World, which revitalized the band's classic sound while introducing new elements. The release indicated a new phase in their career, re-establishing their presence in the heavy metal scene.
Stylistic neighbors: Judas Priest· Helloween· Megadeth